Comfort device, system and method with electronic message display

ABSTRACT

A message playing system includes a plurality of comfort devices, each having a soft, huggable body and an electronic circuit in the body. The electronic circuit includes a WiFi or other wireless communication circuit for wireless electronic message communications. Each comfort device includes a display device for displaying messages. A server is connected over a communication network that includes at least one wireless communication link to each comfort device. The server is configured to receive and store messages and identification information for each message. The server is further configured to transmit the plurality of messages from the server to the comfort devices associated with the messages.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/830,848filed on Mar. 14, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication 61/663,436, filed Jun. 22, 2012. All of which are fullyincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND Field of the Disclosure

This disclosure relates to comfort devices that include message displaycapabilities and communication network connections for receiving messageinformation, and systems and methods that employ such devices and, inparticular embodiments, to a stuffed animal or other stuffed, plush orsoft item for providing comfort to a user and that includes processingand communication electronics for wireless WiFi communication with aserver over a network to receive and store messages for selectivedisplay.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present invention relate, generally to comfortdevices that include wireless communication and message displaycapabilities, and systems and methods that employ such devices. Inparticular embodiments, the comfort device comprises a stuffed animal,pillow or other stuffed, plush or soft item that is typically used forproviding comfort to a user. According to embodiments of the presentinvention, the comfort device includes processing and communicationelectronics for wireless communication with a server over a network, andone or more electronic display devices. The communication electronicsare configured to communicate, through a wireless link (such as, but notlimited to a WiFi connection to the Internet or other wide areanetwork), with the server to receive and store messages for selectivedisplay on the electronic display device.

A message playing system according to an embodiment of the inventionincludes a comfort device that has a soft body and is configured to beheld or hugged to provide comfort to a device user. The system accordingto that embodiment also includes an electronic circuit disposed withinthe body of the comfort device. The electronic circuit has a wirelesscommunication circuit for receiving wireless electronic messagecommunications. In addition, the system according to that embodimentalso includes a display device connected to the electronic circuit fordisplaying one or more messages associated with wireless electronicmessage communications received by the wireless communication circuit.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention the wireless communication circuit comprises a WiFicommunication circuit that communicates electronic messages through adirect wireless link to a wireless communication network.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, the wireless communication circuit comprises a WiFicommunication circuit that communicates electronic messages through awireless link to a communication network, the wireless link including anetwork communication device connected via a wired connection to thecommunication network, the network communication device being connectedfor wireless communication with the wireless communication circuit inthe comfort device.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, the wireless communication circuit comprises a WiFicommunication circuit that continuously or periodically monitors awireless communication link for a wireless communication message.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, the wireless communication circuit comprises at least one ofa radio frequency (RF) or a Bluetooth communication circuit thatcommunicates electronic messages through a direct wireless link to awireless communication network.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, a server is connected for communication with the comfortdevice, over a communication network, including at least one wirelesscommunication link, where the server is configured to: receive over thecommunication network and store at least one message and identificationinformation associated with the message, the identification informationidentifying the comfort device as being associated with the message; andtransmit the at least one message from the server to the comfort deviceassociated with the message.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, the server is configured to transmit the at least one messageto the comfort device in response to at least one of an expiration of apredetermined time period, a predefined time being reached, and arequest being received from a user of the comfort device.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, an electronic memory is disposed in the comfort device, forstoring at least one message received from the server. In addition, theserver includes a further electronic memory for storing a plurality ofmessages and identification information associated with each message. Insuch embodiments, the electronic memory disposed in the comfort devicestores at least one message received from the server while the serverstores at least one additional message and identification informationthat associates the at least one additional message with the comfortdevice.

In further example of a message playing system according to theabove-described embodiment of the invention, the server is configured totransmit the at least one additional message to the comfort device inresponse to at least one of an expiration of a predetermined timeperiod, a predefined time being reached, and a request being receivedfrom a user of the comfort device.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, a pressure activated electrical switch is disposed in or onthe comfort device and arranged to be activated upon the soft body ofthe comfort device being hugged.

A message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention includes a housing that contains the electronic circuit. Insuch embodiments, the housing is sealed to inhibit leakage of fluid fromoutside of the housing to the electronic circuit contained within thehousing. In addition, a volume of stuffing is provided around thehousing.

In a message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention, the comfort device comprises a stuffed animal.

A message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention includes a further display device connected to the electroniccircuit and controlled by the electronic circuit to display anindication that a message is available to be played. In suchembodiments, the further display device that displays an indication thata message is available to be played is separate from the display devicethat displays the one or more messages received.

A message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention includes a server connected for communication with the comfortdevice, over a communication network, including at least one wirelesscommunication link. In such embodiments, the server provides a networksite at which one or more network users are able to enter messageinformation and designate a comfort device to associate with the messageinformation. Also in such embodiments, the server is configured tocommunicate message information to the comfort device designated asbeing associated with the message information.

A message playing system according to a further embodiment of theinvention includes a plurality of comfort devices, where each comfortdevice has a soft body and is configured to be held or hugged to providecomfort to a device user. Each comfort device includes an electroniccircuit disposed within the body of the comfort device, where theelectronic circuit includes a wireless communication circuit forreceiving wireless electronic message communications. Each comfortdevice includes a display device connected to the electronic circuit fordisplaying one or more messages associated with wireless electronicmessage communications received by the wireless communication circuit.The system further includes a server connected for communication withthe plurality of comfort devices, over a communication network,including at least one wireless communication link to each comfortdevice. The server is configured to receive over the communicationnetwork and store a plurality of messages and identification informationfor each message. The identification information for each messageidentifies at least one of the comfort devices as being associated withthe message. The server is further configured to transmit the pluralityof messages from the server to the comfort devices associated with themessages.

A message playing method according to a further embodiment of theinvention includes disposing an electronic circuit within the body ofthe comfort device, where the electronic circuit includes a wirelesscommunication circuit for receiving wireless electronic messagecommunications. The method further includes connecting a display deviceto the electronic circuit for displaying one or more messages associatedwith wireless electronic message communications received by the wirelesscommunication circuit.

In a method according to a further embodiment, the wirelesscommunication circuit comprises a WiFi communication circuit, and themethod further comprises receiving wireless electronic messagecommunications through a direct WiFi link of the wireless communicationcircuit in the comfort device to a wireless communication network.

In a method according to further embodiments, the wireless communicationcircuit comprises a WiFi communication circuit, and the method furthercomprises receiving wireless electronic message communications through awireless link to a communication network. In such embodiments, thewireless link includes a network communication device connected via awired connection to the communication network, where the networkcommunication device is connected for WiFi communication with thewireless communication circuit in the comfort device.

In a method according to a further embodiment, the wirelesscommunication circuit comprises a WiFi communication circuit, the methodfurther comprising continuously or periodically monitoring, via the WiFicommunications circuit, a wireless communication link for a wirelesscommunication message.

A method according to further embodiments includes connecting a serverfor communication with the comfort device, over a communication network,including at least one wireless communication link. Such embodimentsfurther include configuring the server to receive over the communicationnetwork and store at least one message and identification informationassociated with the message, the identification information identifyingthe comfort device as being associated with the message; and configuringthe server to transmit the at least one message from the server to thecomfort device associated with the message.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is general representation of an example of a comfort device inthe form of a stuffed bear animal and server according to an embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram representation of an electronic circuitincluded in a comfort device, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2B is a block diagram representation of an electronic circuitincluded in a comfort device, in accordance with another embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram representation of a network system employingcomfort devices according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a general representation of a network website page forregistration of a comfort device, according to an example embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 5 is a general representation of a network website page for sendinga message to a comfort device, according to an example embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of various aspects of the presentdisclosure and is not intended to represent the only aspects in whichthe present disclosure may be practiced. Each aspect described in thisdisclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration of thepresent disclosure, and should not necessarily be construed as preferredor advantageous over other aspects. The detailed description includesspecific details for providing a thorough understanding of the presentdisclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the artthat the present disclosure may be practiced without these specificdetails. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shownin block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of thepresent disclosure. Acronyms and other descriptive terminology may beused merely for convenience and clarity and are not intended to limitthe scope of the present disclosure.

While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the methodologies areshown and described as a series of acts, it is to be understood andappreciated that the methodologies are not limited by the order of acts,as some acts may, in accordance with one or more aspects, occur indifferent orders and/or concurrently with other acts from that shown anddescribed herein. For example, those skilled in the art will understandand appreciate that a methodology could alternatively be represented asa series of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram.Moreover, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement amethodology in accordance with one or more aspects.

Embodiments of the present invention relate, generally to comfortdevices that include wireless communication and message displaycapabilities, and systems and methods that employ such devices. Inparticular embodiments, the comfort device comprises a stuffed animal,pillow or other stuffed, plush or soft item that is typically used forproviding comfort to a user. According to embodiments of the presentinvention, the comfort device includes processing and communicationelectronics for wireless communication with a server over a network, andone or more electronic display devices. The communication electronicsare configured to communicate, through a wireless link (such as, but notlimited to a WiFi connection to the Internet or other wide areanetwork), with the server to receive and store messages for selectivedisplay on the electronic display device.

The server provides a user interface, such as, but not limited to, oneor more websites with pages that allow device users to register comfortdevices and access additional stored messages, and other network usersto submit messages to play on registered comfort devices. In particularembodiments, the messages are in the form of electronic audio messages,such as, but not limited to, recorded voice messages, musical messages,or other audible information. In other embodiments, the messages mayalternatively or additionally include electronic video messages,electronic text messages, combinations thereof, and/or other electronicinformation. The user interface allows the network users to identify oneor more particular comfort devices to associate with the submittedmessage. Once a message has been submitted to the server, the serverprovides the submitted message to the one or more comfort devices thatare associated with the submitted message. In particular embodiments,the server may send a predefined number of messages to a comfort device(where the predefined number may be one or any suitable number greaterthan one, for example, but not limited to five). However, the server maystore additional messages that can be sent to the comfort device at alater time and/or that can be accessed by a device user, for example,through a device user website page provided by the server.

The comfort devices may be used in the manner that an ordinary comfortdevice (such as, but not limited to, a stuffed animal, pillow or thelike) is used. However, when the comfort device of embodiments of thepresent invention is in an appropriate range of a wireless signalprovider, electronics associated with the comfort device receivecommunication signals that include one or more messages that can beplayed (displayed) on a display device associated with the comfortdevice.

Messages are received by the comfort devices, through wirelesscommunication links. Once a message is received (or available to bereceived), a first display device on or associated with the comfortdevice is activated to inform a device user that a message is available.The device user may activate a user-operable switch to activate displayelectronics in the comfort device to display the message on a seconddisplay device (or on the first display device).

An example of a comfort item 10, in the form of a stuffed bear, is shownin FIG. 1. A stuffed bear is used in examples illustrated and describedherein, as an expedient to describing various aspects of the invention.However, further embodiments of the invention employ other types ofcomfort items, such as those described below.

The comfort item 10 includes an electronic circuit 12. In the embodimentof FIG. 1, the electronic circuit 12 is located inside of the body ofthe stuffed bear comfort item 10, hidden from view from outside of thebody of the bear. A sufficient amount of stuffing and/or other softmaterial is placed around the electronic circuit 12, to protect theelectronic circuit 12 and/or to obscure its presence in the body of thestuffed bear comfort item 10. In other embodiments, the electroniccircuit 12 may be attached on an outer surface of the comfort item 10.

The comfort item 10 may include one or more visible features thatenhance the comfort or endearing qualities of the item, including, butnot limited to facial features (such as eyes, nose, mouth), ears, arms,legs, a heart-shaped feature, and the like. In particular embodiments ofthe invention, a first electronic display device 14 is incorporated in(or associated in another manner with) one or more of such visiblefeatures. In particular embodiments, the first electronic display device14 comprises one or more electronic light emitting devices that emit alight when activated. In other embodiments, the first electronic displaydevice alternatively or additionally includes one or more of a soundemitting device, video or text display screen device, or a tactileoutput device, that is electrically connected to the electronics 12 andcontrolled by the electronics 12 to selectively activate to provide afirst display comprising an audible, visual, and/or tactile indicationthat a message is available.

Once a message is available, a second electronic display device 16 isselectively activated by the electronics 12 to provide a second display,comprising the message. In particular embodiments, the second electronicdisplay device 16 comprises an audio display device (such as, but notlimited to, a speaker and audio signal generator), for playing audiomessages, such as, but not limited to voice messages, musical messagesor other audible information. In other embodiments, the secondelectronic display device alternatively or additionally comprises avisual display device (such as, but not limited to an electronic displayscreen and an image or video signal generator) or a combination thereof,that can display one or more of still image information, moving or videoinformation, textual information, or various combinations thereof, andis located in an externally visible location on the comfort device 10.In further embodiments, the first and second displays are provided by asingle electronic display device (obviating the need for two displaydevices).

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first display device 14 comprises alight emitting device, such as, but not limited to one or more LED,incandescent, fluorescent or other lamp. The first display device 14 inFIG. 1 is included in a heart-shaped feature 18 on the chest area of thebody of the stuffed bear. In other embodiments, the light emittingdisplay device 14 (or a further light emitting device 14) may beincluded in one or both of the eye features, one or both of the earfeatures, the nose feature, the mouth feature or other locations on thestuffed bear comfort item 10.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second display device 16 comprises aspeaker and audio signal generator, and is incorporated in theelectronics 12 so as to be hidden from view. In other embodiments, thesecond display device 16 may be located in a separate location on thecomfort device 10 relative to the location of the electronics 12, butelectrically connected to the electronic circuit 12 through suitableelectronic conductors.

The electronic circuit 12 provides various functions described herein,including communications through a communications link with a networkserver 20 to receive messages, storing received messages, andselectively playing stored messages. The communications link includes awireless link 22 that directly connects the electronic circuit 12 to theserver 20, or to further communications electronics that are connected(through other wired and/or wireless links) to the server 20.

FIG. 2 a shows a generalized block diagram of an example embodiment ofthe electronic circuit 12, connected to the first and second displaydevices 14 and 16. FIG. 2 b shows a generalized block diagram of anotherexample embodiment of the electronic circuit 12, connected to the firstand second display devices 14 and 16. The embodiment of FIG. 2 a employsa bus-type architecture, in which a processor 21 and various componentsof the electronic circuit are connected to a common bus 23. In contrast,in the embodiment of FIG. 2 b, various components of the electroniccircuit are connected, individually, to the processor 21, throughindividual electronic connections. Other embodiments may employ acombination or hybrid of a bus type architecture and individualconnections. Yet other embodiments may employ other suitable connectionarrangements for components of the electronic circuit 12.

In each of the electronic circuit 12 embodiments of FIGS. 2 a and 2 b,the processor 21 comprises one or more processing devices configuredwith hardware, firmware, or combinations thereof and/or programmed withsoftware to provide functions as described herein. The electroniccircuit 12 also includes a communication circuit 24, electronic memory25, an electrical connection 26 to the first display device 14, anelectrical connection 27 to the second display device 16 and an operator28. The electronic circuit 12 includes other components (not shown),including a power source (or a connection to a power source) forproviding electrical power to the components of the electronic circuit12. In addition, the electronic circuit 12 may include an outer casing29 configured to cover and protect the electronic components of theelectronic circuit 12, including, for example, to keep stuffing or othermaterial located inside of the comfort device 10 from coming intocontact with sensitive electronics. In particular embodiments, thecasing 29 is sufficiently sealed to prevent moisture from coming intocontact with the electronic circuit 12. In yet further embodiments, thecasing 29 is sufficiently sealed against water leakage to allow thecomfort device 10 to be washed (for example in a clothes washingmachine), without damaging the electronic circuit 12.

The communications circuit 24 includes suitable electronics forproviding and supporting wireless communication with the communicationsdevice 32 (32 ¹, 32 ² . . . 32 ^(n)). The communications circuit 24 mayinclude receiver or transceiver electronics that support one or moretypes of wireless communication protocols, as described below.

The electronic memory 25 comprises one or more electronic memorycircuits capable of storing one or more messages received, over thenetwork 30, from the server 20. In particular embodiments, theelectronic memory 25 is configured to store multiple messages that canbe selectively and individually retrieved for display on the seconddisplay device 16, under control of the processor 21. For example, theelectronic memory 25, under control of the processor 21, may beconfigured to store a predefined number of messages (where thepredefined number may be any suitable number, including one or a numbergreater than one). In one example embodiment, the predefined number isfive, such that the electronic memory 25 stores up to five messages atany one time. As described below, one or more of such messages may bereceived from the server 20 or may be pre-stored in the memory 25 at atime of manufacture of the comfort device or other time before thecomfort device is sold or otherwise provided to a device user.

Each of the electrical connections 26 and 27 comprises one or moresuitable electrical conductive paths, cables, wires, terminals orconnectors that connect the electronics 12 to communicate electronicdisplay signals for electronic display of information on the displaydevices 14 and 16. They type of electrical connection 26 and 27 employedin a particular embodiment can depend upon the type of display devicesused for the first and second display devices 14 and 16.

The operator 28 comprises any suitable electronic switch device that isoperated by manual or other designated action. In one embodiment theoperator 28 comprises a pressure-activated switch that changes state oractivates (e.g., closes or turns ON) when a squeezing pressure isapplied to the comfort device 10 (or to a designated location on thecomfort device 10, such as, but not limited to the chest area of thebody, a paw, an ear, the nose or the like). Thus, for example, apressure-activated switch may be arranged in the body area of thecomfort device 10, to activate (e.g., close or turn ON) when a deviceuser hugs or otherwise squeezes the comfort device 10 with sufficientforce to change the state of the pressure-activated switch.

Alternatively, or in addition, the operator 28 comprises apressure-activated switch arranged in a paw, ear, nose or other area ofthe comfort device 10, to activate when a device user manually squeezesthat area of the comfort device 10. In other embodiments, the operator28 may comprise other suitable manually operable switch devicesincluding, but not limited to, a standard push-button switch, toggleswitch, knob, touch pad or the like, arranged at a suitable location onthe comfort device 10 for selective activation by a device user.Alternatively or in addition, the operator 28 comprises a switchconfigured to activate (e.g., close or turn ON) upon detection of theoccurrence of a specified event, such as, but not limited to thereaching of a predetermined time or date, the passage of a predeterminedtime period, the detection of motion in the proximity of the comfortdevice 10 (e.g., within a specified distance from the comfort device10), the detection of light, a change in light intensity or absence oflight, the detection of motion, or the detection of another activity orevent. Accordingly, the operator 28 may comprise a proximity detector, alight detector, a motion detector, a clock or other timer device, orother suitable device that electrically indicates the occurrence of aspecified activity or event.

As described in more detail, below, the operator 28 may be activated bya device user, when the device user desires to hear or view a storedmessage. Alternatively, or in addition, the operator 28 may be activatedautomatically, for example, in response to the detection of anoccurrence of a specified activity or event, such as described above.When the operator 28 is activated, the electronic circuit 12 (under thecontrol of the processor 21) retrieves one or more pre-stored messagesfrom the memory 25 and displays the message through the second displaydevice 16. In further embodiments, a first activation of the operator 28causes the electronic circuit 12 to retrieve one of multiple pre-storedmessages from the memory 25 and displays that message through the seconddisplay device 16, while a second activation of the operator 28 (e.g.,any time after the first activation, or in further embodiments within apredefined time after the first activation of the operator 28) causesthe electronic circuit 12 to retrieve and display a second storedmessage from the memory 25. Similar operations can cause playing of athird and further messages stored in memory 25. In yet furtherembodiments, one or more (or all) of the message are not pre-stored inthe memory 25 and, instead, the electronic circuit 12 retrieves amessage from the server 20 in response to the operator 28 beingactivated as described above.

In particular embodiments, the first display device 14 may be activatedby the electronic circuit 12 to inform a device user of a stored message(or a new message). In such embodiments, when the device user sees,hears or feels the first display device 14 being activated, the deviceuser may be informed that a message is available to hear or view. Theoperator 28 may be activated by a device user, when the device userdesires to play (hear or view) a stored message. In particularembodiments, the device user may activate the operator 28 to play astored message at any time, whether or not the first display 14 isactivated. In other embodiments, the electronic circuit 12 controlsaccess to stored messages to allow a device user to play a storedmessage only if and when the first display 14 is also being activated.In yet other embodiments that do not include a first display device 14,the device user need not be informed of a new or stored message, but maystill play a stored message or messages by activation of the operator28. When the operator 28 is activated by the device user, the electroniccircuit 12 (under the control of the processor 21) retrieves a messagefrom the memory 25 and displays the message through the second displaydevice 16. In further embodiments, the electronic circuit 12 retrieves amessage from the server 20 in response to the operator 28 beingactivated.

A system employing a plurality of comfort devices 10 (labeled 10 ¹, 10 ². . . 10 ^(n), where n represents any number greater than 2), eachcoupled for communication over a network 30 with the server 20 isdescribed with reference to FIG. 3. The comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . .10 n may be located in mutually different geographic areas, for example,in different countries, cities, neighborhoods and/or buildings.Alternatively, some or all of the comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10^(n) may be located in proximity of each other, for example, in the sameroom, building or campus.

Each comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n) in FIG. 3 corresponds to adifferent respective comfort device configured as described above withreference to comfort device 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, theelectronic circuit (corresponding to circuit 12 in FIGS. 1, 2 a and 2 b)of each respective comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n) is connected,through a respective wireless link 22, to a respective wiredcommunications device, labeled 32 ¹, 32 ² . . . 32 ^(n) (such as, butnot limited to, a local network computer, router, or the like) that isconnected through a standard wired connection to the network 30. Inother embodiments, any one or more of the communications device 32 ¹, 32² . . . 32 ^(n) may be connected to the network 30 through a furtherwireless link or a combination of wired and wireless links.

The wireless link 22 allows the comfort device (10′, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n))to be freely moveable and readily used for typical comfort deviceactivities noted above, without obstructions of wired connections toexternal devices, while allowing the electronic communications functionsdescribed herein to be performed. The wireless link 22 may comprise anysuitable communication link that employs wireless communicationselectronics and protocols, such as, but not limited to, WiFi, radiofrequency rf, Bluetooth, optical, magnetic, other electromagnetic links,or the like. The electronic circuit 12 (including the communicationcircuit 24) and the communications device 32 ¹, 32 ² . . . 32 ^(n)include suitable electronics for supporting communications over one ormore of such wireless links.

The server 20 in FIG. 3 (and FIG. 1) comprises one or more computerscoupled for communication on the network and that are programmed and/orconfigured to provide server operations and functions described herein.The server 20 includes or is associated with electronic memory 34suitable for storing messages received from network user computer NC',NC² . . . NC^(n) (described below) and/or other messages that arepre-stored and/or retrieved by the server 20 from other networklocations over the network 30. In some examples, the server 20 comprisesa desktop computer, laptop computer, mainframe computer or othercomputer or set of computers capable of handling the server functionsdescribed herein.

FIG. 3 shows a plurality of network user computers (labeled NC¹, NC² . .. NC^(n)) connected for communication with the server 20, over thenetwork 30. The network user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) areoperated by network users to input messages, through the server 20, fordisplay on the comfort devices 10′, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n). Each networkuser computer NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) comprises a suitable computer devicehaving at least one display device and at least one user input device,to allow a network user to receive information over the network 30 (suchas audio, video, text and other information from server 20) and to inputinformation to communicate over the network 30 (such as audio, video,text and other information to the server 20). In some examples, eachnetwork user computer NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) comprises a desktopcomputer, laptop computer, mobile phone or pad computer.

The network user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) may be located inmutually different geographic areas, for example, in differentcountries, cities, neighborhoods and/or buildings. Alternatively, someor all of the network user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) may belocated in proximity of each other, for example, in the same room,building or campus.

According to embodiments of the present invention, device users (orothers) who have obtained one or more of the comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ². . . 10 ^(n) are able to register their comfort device(s). The comfortdevice(s) may be registered by any suitable process that allows theserver 20 to designate messages to particular comfort devices. In oneexample, a device user may register a comfort device 10 by submittingregistration information to an entity associated with the server 20 (oran entity associated with a website running on the server 20). Suchregistration information may be submitted by postal mail, electronicmail, telephone, fax or other suitable communication. In anotherexample, the electronic circuit in the comfort device 10 (using thecommunication circuit 24 under the control of the processor 21) contactsthe server 20, through the wireless link 22 and network 30, toautomatically submit registration information.

In yet another example, the server 20 provides one or more websites (orother network location) that can be accessed, through the network 30, bya device user (through a suitable network-connected computer, not shown)to register a comfort device 10. In such embodiments, a website providesa page or fields in which the device user can enter registrationinformation and the like. An example of a website page for enteringregistration information is shown in FIG. 4, where the website pageincludes a field 40 for entering an identification code (such as, butnot limited to, a unique serial number or code, or the like) that isassociated with the device user's comfort device 10. The identificationcode may be printed on the comfort device 10 or included with printeddocuments, packaging or other materials that are provided with thecomfort device 10 when the comfort device 10 is purchased.Alternatively, the identification code may be assigned to a comfortdevice, at or after the point of purchase. The registration website page(shown in FIG. 4) may include other fields 41-43, for entering otherinformation, such as, but not limited to a place of purchase, a date ofpurchase, name or other identification of the purchaser or owner of thecomfort device, etc.

In certain embodiments, each comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n) hasa unique identification code that differs from the identification codeof each of the other comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n). In otherembodiments, a group of multiple (two or more), but not all comfortdevices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 n includes the same identification code,such that those comfort devices are able to receive the same messages.In yet other embodiments, a comfort device 10 may be associated withmore than one identification code, such that messages designated for anyone of those identification codes would be accessible by that comfortdevice.

Once a comfort device is registered, a network user on one of thenetwork user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) is able to submit anddesignate messages for that comfort device. For example, the networkuser on one of the network user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) connectswith the server 20, over the communication network 30. In one example,the connection may be accomplished by the network user accessing awebsite provided by the server 20. Once connected to the server 20, thenetwork user is able to input one or more messages, such as a private orpersonal message, and designate the message(s) to be played by one ormore of the comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n).

Thus, in one embodiment, the server 20 provides a website (or othernetwork location) that can be accessed, through the network 30, by anetwork user on one of the network user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n).In such embodiments, the website provides one or more pages or fields inwhich the network user can enter information, messages and the like. Anexample of a website page for entering a message is shown in FIG. 5. Inthe example of FIG. 5, the message input website page includes a field50 for entering one or more identification numbers associated with oneor more of the comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n), to identify thecomfort device(s) to which the message is to be sent.

A further field and/or user-operable controls (such as, but not limitedto one or more selectable icons or other tabs that a network user canselect with a mouse, touchscreen or other computer-input device) isprovided on the message input page (or related page), to assist anetwork user to input one or more messages. For example, in FIG. 5, themessage input page includes a set of user-selectable icons 52 (labeledSTART and STOP) that allow a user to select a starting time (byactivating the START icon) and a stopping time (by activating the STOPicon) for entering an audio message. In particular, a network user mayactivate the START icon to start recording an audio message (such as,but not limited to a voice message) through an audio input device (suchas, but not limited to a microphone) associated with the network user'scomputer NC¹, NC² . . . , or NC^(n). When the network user completes theaudio message, the network user may activate the STOP icon. The networkuser's computer NC¹, NC² . . . , or NC^(n), is controlled to receive andcommunicate to the server 20, the audio message recorded betweenactivations of the START and STOP icon. Alternatively, the STOP icon maybe omitted in embodiments in which a pre-defined recording time isstarted upon activation of a single icon (such as the START icon), whererecording automatically stops after the passage of the pre-definedrecording time from the time at which the single icon (e.g., START icon)is activated.

In embodiments in which the comfort device 10 includes a video or imagemessage display device as the second display device 16, the icon(s) 52,or similar icons, are provided to assist the network user in inputtingvideo or image information for the message, for example, through acamera, scanner or other video or image input device associated with thenetwork user's computer NC¹, NC² . . . , or NC^(n), in a manner similarto the manner described above for inputting audio information through amicrophone.

In yet further embodiments in which the comfort device 10 includes avisual display screen device that is able to display textual messages,the message input page includes one or more further fields 54 forallowing the network user to input one or more textual messages. Thenetwork user may employ the message input website provided by the server20, to input message information (including one or more messages) andidentification information to designate one or more comfort devices 10¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n) to receive the message information.

In further embodiments, the server 20 provides one or more furtherwebsite pages or locations that allow a device user of a registeredcomfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . , or 10 ^(n) (by using anetwork-connected computer associated with the device user) to connectwith the server and access and view information about messages recordedfor that registered comfort device. In one example, such further websitepages or locations include selectable icons or fields that allow thedevice user to select, play and/or delete or revise one or morepreviously-recorded messages that have been designated for that deviceuser's particular comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . , or 10 ^(n). Forexample, a device user may select one or more previously-recordedmessages to always be available on that device user's comfort device 10¹, 10 ² . . . , or 10 ^(n).

In a further example, such further website pages or locations includeselectable icons or fields that allow the device user to selectadditional messages that have been recorded and designated for thatdevice user's comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . , or 10 ^(n), but thathave not been transmitted from the server 20 to that comfort device.Thus, for example, in embodiments in which the server 20 communicates upto a maximum number (for example, but not limited to, five) recordedmessages to a comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . , or 10 ^(n), the server20 may store more than the maximum number of messages for that comfortdevice, and a user of that comfort device may access the further websitepages or locations to check for and retrieve any additional messagesbeyond those that had already been communicated to the comfort device bythe server 20 (or older messages that the comfort device had sincerecorded a new message there-over). In such embodiments, the server 20is controlled to send additional messages to the designated comfortdevice, and the designated comfort device is controlled by electronics12 to store in memory 25, the additional messages for display. In afurther example, such further website pages or locations includeselectable icons and fields that allow the device user to enteradditional information to select an order in which a plurality ofmessages are to be sent to and/or played by the designated comfortdevice(s).

Similarly, in further embodiments, the server 20 provides one or morefurther website pages or locations that allow a network user on anetwork user's computer NC¹, NC² . . . , or NC^(n) to access and viewinformation about messages that the network user recorded. In oneexample, such further website pages or locations include selectableicons or fields that allow the network user to select, play and/ordelete or revise one or more previously-recorded messages (e.g., tocheck or improve the recording). In a further example, such furtherwebsite pages or locations include selectable icons or fields that allowthe network user to enter additional information to select an order inwhich a plurality of messages are to be sent to and/or played by thedesignated comfort device(s). In such embodiments, the server 20 and/orthe electronics 12 receive the additional information input by thenetwork user and controls the sequence or order in which messages aredelivered and/or played, based on such additional information.

In a further example, such further website pages or locations includeselectable icons or fields that allow the network user to selectprerecorded messages (for example, but not limited to, messages thathave been recorded by the entity managing or running the server 20 orservice associated with the server 20, messages that are available onone or more network sites on the network 30, or the like). Suchpre-recorded messages may include, for example, messages recorded by afamous celebrity, sports figure, actor, politician, animated character,or impersonator thereof, that are available to be selected anddesignated for one or more particular comfort devices 10 ¹, 10 ² . . .10 n. Thus, for example, a comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 n may bein the form of a stuffed animal that has (or is wearing clothes thathave) a logo or name of a particular athlete or sports team, and apre-recorded message that was recorded by that athlete or an athlete onthat team may be selected and designated for that comfort device.

The server 20 stores the messages and associated comfort devicedesignations in the memory 34. Either at the time of receiving themessage(s) or at a later time, the server 20 communicates the message(s)to the comfort device(s) designated by the associated designation(s). Inparticular embodiments, the server 20 communicates with the comfortdevice(s) over the network 30 and through the wireless link 22.

In one example of such embodiments, the electronic circuit 12 associatedwith each comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 ^(n) is configured tomaintain a wireless connection that is able to receive networkcommunications of messages from the server 20 at any given time that amessage becomes available. In other embodiments, the electronic circuit12 is configured to periodically (for example, at designated times orafter designated time intervals) communicate with the server to checkfor and retrieve messages. In yet other embodiments, the electroniccircuit 12 is configured to communicate with the server to check for andretrieve messages in response to the activation by the user of a manualoperator, such as the operator 28 described above.

In particular embodiments, when a message is retrieved by the electroniccircuit 12, the electronic circuit 12 activates the first display device14. For example, with reference to FIGS. 2 a and 2 b, the processor 21is configured to control the communication circuit 24 to receive amessage from the server 20 and control the activation of the firstdisplay device 14, through the connection 26.

In further embodiments, before the server 20 sends a message to acomfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 n, the server 20 first communicatesan alert message to the comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 n to indicatethat a message designated for that comfort device has been received bythe server 20. In response to the alert message, the electronic circuit12 of the designated comfort device 10 ¹, 10 ² . . . 10 n activates thefirst display device 14, to alert the device user of the message.

The device user may then operate the operator 28 to retrieve and playthe message. In response to operation of the operator 28, the electroniccircuit 12 (through the communication electronics 24, wireless link 22and network 30) communicates with the server 20 to retrieve the message.Upon retrieving the message, the electronic circuit 12 causes themessage to be played through the second display device 16.

Thus, according to an example embodiment, a network user on one of thenetwork user computers NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) is able to connect (in anetwork communications session) with the server 20, to submitinformation designating a particular comfort device 10 (10 ¹, 10 ² . . .10 ^(n)) and submit a message for the designated comfort device. In oneembodiment, the message is one or more audio messages that the networkuser enters, using an audio input device (such as, but not limited to, amicrophone) associated with the network user's computer NC¹, NC² . . .NC^(n). In another embodiment, the message is one or more still imagesthat the network user enters, using an image input device (such as, butnot limited to, a scanner, a still image camera, or the like) associatedwith the network user's computer NC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n). In yet anotherembodiment, the message is one or more moving image or videos that thenetwork user enters, using a video input device (such as, but notlimited to a video camera, or the like). In yet other embodiments, themessage is one or more textual messages that the network user enters,using a text input device (such as, but not limited to, a keyboard,voice-recognition software that converts voice to text, or the like). Inyet other embodiments, the message may include audio, video and/or textfiles and/or one or more network links (such as a hyperlink) that thenetwork user enters by attaching and sending such file(s) and/or link(s)to the server 20, in a communication session with the server 20. In yetother embodiments, the message submitted by the network user is acombination of one or more of the above-described messages.

For example, a grandparent may submit a personal message (including anaudio voice message, a video message, an image message and/or a textmessage) to the server 20 and designate the message as being for acomfort device 10 that is registered with a grandchild of thatgrandparent. The grandchild's comfort device 10 (such as a stuffedanimal) receives the message when the comfort device 10 is located inthe vicinity of the communication device 32 (such as, in thegrandchild's house or room). Upon receipt of the message, the firstdisplay on the comfort device (such as a light on a heart-shaped featureof the stuffed animal) is activated to inform the grandchild that amessage has been received. The grandchild may, then, activate theoperator 28 (such as, by hugging the stuffed animal to activate apressure-activated switch), to cause the electronic circuit 12 to playthe message through the second display device 16 (such as a speaker andvideo screen on the stuffed animal). In other examples, personalmessages may be submitted to friends, other family members, social orbusiness acquaintances, or the like, in a similar manner.

While embodiments described above refer, primarily, to messages that areinput to the server 20 by network users, via the network user's computerNC¹, NC² . . . NC^(n) or other processes. However, in furtherembodiments, messages may be obtained by server 20 from other sources.For example, in such embodiments, the server 20 has access to pre-storedmessages (for example, stored in memory 34) that were provided by othersources and/or by the entity associated with running or managing theserver 20 or website discussed above. Such pre-stored messages mayinclude, for example, general greetings (such as, but not limited,greetings typically included in pre-printed greeting cards), or otherpre-stored messages relating to specific topics. In such embodiments,the message input page (FIG. 5) includes a menu or field (not shown) forallowing the network user to select one or more pre-stored messages, aspart of the network user's input.

In further embodiments, pre-stored messages were obtained by the server20 from one or more other network sites, over the network 30, and storedin the memory 34. In yet further embodiments, links (network addressesor the like) for pre-stored messages are obtained by the server 20 andstored in the memory 34, for selection by a network user in a mannersimilar to the processes described above.

In further embodiments, the electronics 12 associated with a comfortdevice 10 includes a connector such as, but not limited to a USBconnector, a cradle connector, or the like, for establishing a wiredconnection with a network-connected computer. The wired connectionprovides one or more of data and control signal connection, a powersource connection, or the like. In such embodiments, a comfort device 10may be connected to the server 20, through that connector connected to anetwork-connected computer associated with the device user. When soconnected, the comfort device 10 can receive data and/or controlinformation from the server 20, for controlling settings, message ordersand other features. Alternatively or in addition, the comfort device 10can receive power signals for charging a battery or other power supply(not shown) associated with the electronic circuit 12.

In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, a comfort device 10 in the formof a stuffed bear is shown. However, as described above, embodiments ofthe present invention may be employed with other forms of comfortdevices, such as, but not limited to, other stuffed animals, pillows, orother stuffed, plush or soft items typically handled and used in variousmanners for comfort (including cuddled, displayed, incorporated in gamesand other play activities, and the like).

Furthermore, while embodiments discussed above include first and seconddisplay devices 14 and 16, in further embodiments, the first displaydevice 14 may be omitted, and the device user may play a message byactivating the operator 18 at any desired time (i.e., without promptingby the activation of a first display device 14, as described above). Forexample, an embodiment of a comfort device 10 may be in the form of apillow or other stuffed, plush or soft item that does not include afeature (such as the heart-shaped feature 18 described above) on which afirst display device 14 is located. For such an embodiment, a deviceuser may access a message that has been received and stored by theelectronics 12, by squeezing the comfort device (or performing someother predefined manual operation on the comfort device) to activate theoperator 18.

It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in theprocesses disclosed is an example of exemplary approaches. Based upondesign preferences, it is understood that the specific order orhierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged while remainingwithin the scope of the present disclosure.

Those of skill in the art would understand that information and signalsmay be represented using any of a variety of different technologies andtechniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information,signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced throughout theabove description may be represented by voltages, currents,electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields orparticles, or any combination thereof

Those of skill would further appreciate that the various illustrativelogical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described inconnection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented aselectronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. Toclearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software,various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and stepshave been described above generally in terms of their functionality.Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or softwaredepends upon the particular application and design constraints imposedon the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the describedfunctionality in varying ways for each particular application, but suchimplementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing adeparture from the scope of the present disclosure.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits describedin connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implementedor performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signalprocessor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), afield programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device,discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or anycombination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein.A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in thealternative, the processor may be any conventional processor,controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also beimplemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combinationof a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one ormore microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other suchconfiguration.

The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with theembodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in asoftware module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two.A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory,EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, aCD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. Anexemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such the processorcan read information from, and write information to, the storage medium.In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor.The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC mayreside in a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor and thestorage medium may reside as discrete components in a user terminal.

In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions described may beimplemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on ortransmitted over as one or more instructions or code on acomputer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computerstorage media and communication media including any medium thatfacilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Astorage media may be any available media that can be accessed by acomputer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readablemedia can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical diskstorage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or anyother medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code inthe form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed bya computer. In addition, any connection is properly termed acomputer-readable medium. For example, if the software is transmittedfrom a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable,fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), orwireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then thecoaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wirelesstechnologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in thedefinition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compactdisc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD),floppy disk, and Blu-Ray disc where disks usually reproduce datamagnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers.Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope ofcomputer-readable media.

The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided toenable any person skilled in the art to make or use the presentdisclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles definedherein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from thespirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is notintended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to beaccorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novelfeatures disclosed herein.

1. A message accessing system for providing electronic messages to aplurality of comfort devices to play to users of the comfort devices,the system comprising: a server wirelessly connected to communicate oneor more messages to the comfort devices, the server configured to: storeat least one message for playing on at least one of the comfort devices;provide a user interface; receive instructions pertaining to the atleast one message through the user interface; and execute theinstructions pertaining to the at least one message.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the instructions comprise providing the at least onemessage to the at least one comfort device, and wherein the at least onemessage is not stored at the at least one comfort device prior to theproviding.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the at least one comfortdevice is at maximum storage capacity for messages prior to theproviding.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the at least one messagewas available at the at least one comfort device but was subsequentlyreplaced by a new message prior to the providing.
 5. The system of claim1, wherein the instructions comprise deleting the at least one messagefrom the server.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the instructionscomprise viewing information related to the at least one message.
 7. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the instructions comprise making the at leastone message always available at the at least one comfort device.
 8. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the at least one message comprises aplurality of messages and the instructions comprise organizing themessages into a sequence.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the sequencecomprises an order in which the messages are to be transmitted by theserver to the at least one comfort device.
 10. The system of claim 8,wherein the sequence comprises an order in which the messages are to beplayed by the at least one comfort device.
 11. The system of claim 8,wherein the server is further configured to receive the instructionsfrom a user of the at least one comfort device.
 12. The system of claim1, wherein the instructions comprise editing the at least one message.13. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one message is aprerecorded message.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein theinstructions comprise selecting the prerecorded message and designatingthe prerecorded message for the at least one comfort device.
 15. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein the prerecorded message is a messagerecorded by an entity managing or running the server.
 16. The system ofclaim 14, wherein the prerecorded message is a message recorded by acelebrity, sports figure, actor, politician, animated character, orimpersonator thereof
 17. A method of accessing electronic messages in asystem for providing the electronic messages to a plurality of comfortdevices to play to users of the comfort devices, the method comprising:storing at least one message for playing on at least one of the comfortdevices; providing a user interface; receiving instructions pertainingto the at least one message through the user interface; and executingthe instructions pertaining to the at least one message.
 18. The methodof claim 17, wherein the instructions comprise making the at least onemessage always available at the at least one comfort device.
 19. Themethod of claim 17, wherein the at least one message comprises aplurality of messages and the instructions comprise organizing themessages into a sequence.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein thesequence comprises an order in which the messages are to be played bythe at least one comfort device.